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Spluttered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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spluttered

[หˆsplสŒtษ™red ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

speech interruption

To splutter is to make a series of soft explosive sounds, often as a result of excitement, confusion, or an inability to articulate thoughts clearly. It can refer to someone speaking in a halting manner or in bursts of incoherent sounds. The term can also describe the spitting or sputtering of a liquid or gas. In colloquial use, it often conveys a sense of urgency or frustration.

Synonyms

choke, falter, gasp, splutter, stammer.

Examples of usage

  • She spluttered her explanation amidst her tears.
  • The engine spluttered before finally starting.
  • He spluttered in disbelief when he heard the news.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Writers often use spluttered to depict characters who are flustered or struggling to express themselves.
  • In children's literature, characters might splutter when they hear something surprising or silly, adding humor.
  • Famous authors, like James Joyce in 'Ulysses', used the term to deepen the reader's experience of confusion.

Science

  • In physics, spluttering describes a rapid expulsion of particles, similar to how people might spit words when flustered.
  • A splutter can be observed in various scientific phenomena, such as bubbling liquids or exploding gases.
  • Studying spluttering helps scientists understand behaviors of materials under heat and pressure.

Pop Culture

  • In comedies, characters often splutter in reaction to ridiculous statements, creating comedic effects.
  • Animated films frequently have characters that splutter when they are panicked or excited, amplifying their emotions.
  • Stand-up comedians use spluttering to imitate confused responses from audiences for a fun twist.

Psychology

  • People often splutter when they experience a strong emotional reaction, indicating surprise or disbelief.
  • Cognitive overload can lead to spluttering, as individuals struggle to articulate complex thoughts.
  • In social psychology, spluttering may portray vulnerability, revealing a person's feelings or frustrations.

Origin of 'spluttered'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Middle English word 'spluteren', which meant to spit or to splash.
  • Begins with the word 'sputter', which relates to both spitting and making a noise.
  • The '-ed' ending indicates a completed action, showing that the spluttering has already happened.

The word 'splutter' originated in the 19th century, with its earliest recorded use appearing around 1829. It is derived from the combination of 'sputter' and the sound of spitting, capturing the essence of making abrupt, explosive sounds. The term reflects a kind of vehement or incoherent speech and is often associated with surprise or disbelief. Its usage has been consistent throughout the years, transitioning from physical actions like sputtering a liquid to describing the patterns of speech. As language evolved, 'splutter' embraced more metaphorical uses, enabling speakers to convey emotional states or reactions through this expressive word.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,811 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.